The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa reflects the authentic style of its surroundings in many ways, not the least of which is its landscape design, implemented by TBG Partners. The native-to-Texas outdoor recreation and water features were created to honor their local roots, along with sustainability. Bordered by white limestone cliffs, the resort offers rich outdoor amenities and features.
“An important design challenge for the resort was to maintain the charming mix of old-fashioned Texas hospitality with all the amenities and activities expected at a world-class luxury resort,” says Jim Manskey, principal at TBG Partners.
Encompassing six acres, the River Bluff Water Experience integrates pools, fountains, waterfalls, rivers, and poolside lounges. Highlights include a 1,200-foot lazy river that meanders through lush landscaping of native trees and brilliant flowers, and Pedernales Falls, a river ride that begins at the top of a natural bluff and cuts into native rock, quickly evolving into rapids and swirling eddies that eventually usher guests into the lazy river. Other outdoor recreational features include a serene infinity-edge adult pool, located on a bluff overlooking the golf courses; hot and cold plunge pools; cascading waterfalls; whirlpools; a children’s pool area with two kiddie slides; and a grand “active” pool, which serves as the centerpiece of the resort’s activity area.
Most outdoor recreation and water structures were designed to blend rock with rough-hewn wood and exposed steel fasteners to provide a more authentic Texas look and feel, while rocking chairs, gliders, and casual furnishings are positioned under large native trees-both preserved and planted-all offering a casual and relaxing environment. The resort’s landscape design also includes a 100-acre bird sanctuary; native grasses and plants; towering pecan, cedar, and oak trees; crystal clear streams; healing waters; rolling hills; wide-open spaces; and rustic materials such as limestone and hardwood, all of which complement the area’s diverse terrain.
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